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Randonneurmas Day 11: Reflective Vests

We like to decorate Christmas trees and light Menorah candles during the holiday season, which shine brightly during the long nights of December. Why not help your favorite cyclist stand out in the night just as much?

In addition to lighting, a bright reflective vest works wonders in getting us noticed after dark. There has been a renewed interest in reflectives among randonneurs since last year, when the Paris-Brest-Paris organizers required everyone to wear a vest that complied with a visibility standard called EN 1150.

That led to the purchase of EN 1150 vests by USA randonneurs for the big event. These would make a perfect holiday gift.

One of the brands that meet this standard is the Mavic Vision Vest. As vests go, it is pricey, but owners love the construction and the reflective quality.

Randonneurs USA is also selling a similarly compliant vest made by the French L2S company called the Deluxe Reflective Wind Resistant Vest. You can see it in the RUSA store.

Here’s our pal Chris N. wearing the Mavic vest.

Chris looking good and visible in the Mavic Vision Vest.

Here’s one of Steve, left, with Nigel and MG, wearing the RUSA vest.

Steve, on the left, has the RUSA deluxe L2S vest. Nigel has the previous RUSA vest, also from L2S.

Finally, this photo shows me and Jon wearing the waterproof L2S vests we bought at PBP last year. I’d like to see these brought into the USA — right now I think you need a friend in France to send one to you. If anyone knows how to get them here, please leave a comment!

Me, Jon and MG at Brest. We’ve got the L2S waterproof vests.

Even if your randonnuer or cylist has a good reflective vest, you can’t go wrong with the L2S from RUSA or the Mavic Vision. They are made to higher standards and will work well in wet and dark conditions.

Hello – It’s tough to find an image of the back of the RUSA vest. Is it open or breathable? I’m considering one. I love my Gore vest. Unfortunately, even the XXL is too snug for me to still use my jersey pockets. The RUSA vest is available in XXXL. Thanks!